UNDERSTAND AUTISM AND ADHD

We are told that 1 in 31 people in the USA have autism. So, it is likely we all know someone who is autistic and we may not realize it. And many people don’t realize they are autistic. This condition can create problems with families, friends, partners and work colleagues, as they respond differently to many situations. This is confusing for everyone. So, it is extremely beneficial to be aware of the traits. When we understand this area better, it can greatly reduce frustration for everyone, helping us be more tolerant, patient and allowing of differences.  

Signs of being on the autism spectrum often include difficulties with social communication and interaction, along with restricted and repetitive behaviors, interests, or activities. These can manifest in various ways, including challenges with eye contact, understanding social cues, and adjusting to changes in routine.  

Social Communication and Interaction: 

Difficulty with social reciprocity: May struggle to understand social cues, take turns in conversations, or initiate social interactions.  

Reduced eye contact: May avoid looking directly at others when speaking or listening.  

Challenges with understanding nonverbal cues: May struggle to interpret facial expressions, body language, or tone of voice.  

Difficulty with social understanding: May have difficulty understanding sarcasm, jokes, or figurative language.  

Limited range of facial expressions: May have a limited range of facial expressions or seem to have difficulty expressing emotions.  

Difficulties with social boundaries: May not understand or respect personal space or social norms.  

Restricted and Repetitive Behaviors, Interests, or Activities: 

Repetitive movements or behaviors: May engage in repetitive hand flapping, rocking, or other movements.  

Strong attachment to routines and rituals: May become distressed by changes in routine or unexpected situations.  

Intense focus on specific interests: May have a strong fascination with particular objects, topics, or activities.  

Difficulty with transitions: May struggle with transitions between activities or places.  

Sensory sensitivities: May be hypersensitive or hyposensitive to certain sensory inputs, such as sounds, textures, or lights.  

Unusual responses to sensory stimuli: May react strongly or not at all to sensory stimuli.  

Inflexibility in thinking: May have difficulty seeing things from different perspectives or understanding abstract concepts. 

ADHD

ADHD is not on the autism spectrum, but they have some of the same symptoms. Having one of these conditions increases the chances of having the other. ADHD, or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, is characterized by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. These symptoms can manifest differently in children, adolescents, and adults, but generally include difficulties with focus, organization, impulse control, and managing excessive energy. 

Inattention:

·         Difficulty concentrating: Struggling to focus on tasks or conversations, easily distracted.

·         Forgetfulness: Regularly forgetting things, instructions, or appointments.

·         Disorganization: Difficulty managing belongings, tasks, or time.

·         Making careless mistakes: Errors due to lack of attention to detail.

·         Difficulty following through: Trouble completing tasks or projects. 

·          

Hyperactivity:

·         Excessive activity: Constant fidgeting, restlessness, or difficulty staying still.

·         Talking excessively: Talking without stopping or interrupting others.

·         Difficulty playing quietly: Trouble engaging in quiet leisure activities.

·         Feeling "on the go": Acting as if driven by a motor. 

·          

Impulsivity:

·         Acting without thinking: Making hasty decisions or blurting out answers.

·         Difficulty waiting for their turn: Impatient and unable to delay gratification.

·         Interrupting others: Cutting people off mid-conversation or jumping into games.

·         Trouble with self-control: Losing control of emotions or actions easily.

Love, 

Sandy Stevenson 

15.4.2025